typecast

[ tahyp-kast, -kahst ]

verb (used with object)

, Theater.

, type·cast, type·cast·ing.

1. to cast (a performer) in a role that requires characteristics of physique, manner, personality, etc., similar to those possessed by the performer.
2. to cast (a performer) repeatedly in a kind of role closely patterned after that of the actor's previous successes.
3. to stereotype:

   He realizes now he's been typecast as an executive errand boy.

typecast

/ ˈtaɪpˌkɑːst /

verb

1. tr to cast (an actor) in the same kind of role continually, esp because of his physical appearance or previous success in such roles

Derived Forms

• ˈtypeˌcaster, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of typecast¹

First recorded in 1930–35; type + cast

Example Sentences

Several Brat Pack members have since blamed the article for typecasting them and preventing their ascension into more serious work.

From TechCrunch

At times in my life, I had tried other sports and was typecast due to being large.

From Outside Online

But during the aughts, the stunning actress had to fight back against being typecast.

From The Daily Beast

All throughout doing Twilight, I got asked whether I was afraid of getting typecast.

From The Daily Beast

“At first, I was worried about getting typecast,” Bennett says.

From The Daily Beast

Silvio Berlusconi certainly knows how to typecast his potential constituency.

From The Daily Beast

So when someone breaks character, we're reminded that people (actually) are too complicated to typecast.

From The Daily Beast

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